PostNL seeks 80 million euro government subsidy for postal costs

PostNL is requesting an 80 million euro compensation from the Dutch government for the upcoming year to cover rising costs associated with legally mandated postal deliveries. The company warns that the financial burden of these legal obligations cannot be borne by the firm alone, stating that current uncertainties place “unacceptable pressure” on the company and its employees.

PostNL claims that outdated regulations regarding postal services will cost the company over 148 million euros across 2025, 2026, and 2027. Maurice Unck, director of the Dutch postal division, noted that while mail volumes have declined significantly, the company is still required by law to maintain full Saturday deliveries and a large number of mailboxes that are increasingly empty.

The company is calling for political clarity regarding a new postal law that has been pending in the House of Representatives since 2020. PostNL suggests that to maintain reliable and affordable service, the delivery standard should be adjusted to a three-day window, which would require a major overhaul of their logistical system.